At the BBC
BBC Two Running Music
25 Seasons · 256 Episodes · Premiered December 25, 1994
Series of one-off documentaries that uses 70 years of the BBC archive to bring together clips under one theme, sometimes the shows have a presenter but often they don't.
Where to Watch:
BBC Two
Next Air Time: No upcoming air date
Seasons & Episodes
Season 1994
1 episode
E01
The Carpenters at the BBC
Sun, Dec 25 1994 10:30 PM GMT+0000
60 min
Season 2000
1 episode
E01
Bowie at the BBC
Sun, Sep 24 2000 9:30 PM GMT+0000
60 min
Season 2004
3 episodes
E01
Classic Soul at the BBC
Sat, Jan 3 2004 10:30 PM GMT+0000
60 min
E02
Barry White at the BBC
Sun, Jan 4 2004 10:30 PM GMT+0000
60 min
E03
Gielgud at the BBC
Sat, Apr 24 2004 9:30 PM GMT+0000
60 min
Season 2005
4 episodes
E01
Jazz at the BBC
Fri, Feb 11 2005 10:30 PM GMT+0000
60 min
E02
Loudon Wainwright III at the BBC
Fri, Sep 23 2005 9:30 PM GMT+0000
60 min
E03
Boulez at the BBC
Fri, Nov 11 2005 10:30 PM GMT+0000
60 min
E04
James Blunt at the BBC
Fri, Dec 9 2005 10:30 PM GMT+0000
60 min
Season 2006
7 episodes
E01
Ronnie Lane at the BBC
Fri, Jan 6 2006 10:30 PM GMT+0000
60 min
E02
Folk at the BBC - 1
Fri, Feb 3 2006 10:30 PM GMT+0000
60 min
E03
Folk at the BBC - 2
Fri, Feb 10 2006 10:30 PM GMT+0000
60 min
E04
Folk at the BBC - 3
Fri, Feb 17 2006 10:30 PM GMT+0000
60 min
E05
Stiff & Co at the BBC - 1
Fri, Sep 15 2006 9:30 PM GMT+0000
60 min
E06
Stiff & Co at the BBC - 2
Sat, Sep 16 2006 9:30 PM GMT+0000
60 min
E07
Beyonce at the BBC
Mon, Nov 13 2006 10:30 PM GMT+0000
60 min
Season 2007
5 episodes
E01
New York Rock at the BBC
Fri, Mar 9 2007 10:00 PM GMT+0000
60 min
E02
Folk Hibernia at the BBC
Fri, Mar 16 2007 10:30 PM GMT+0000
60 min
E03
Classic Soul at the BBC
Thu, Apr 5 2007 9:00 PM GMT+0000
60 min
E04
Classic Britannia at the BBC
Sun, Jul 1 2007 9:30 PM GMT+0000
60 min
E05
Emmylou Harris at the BBC
Fri, Oct 12 2007 9:30 PM GMT+0000
60 min
Season 2008
5 episodes
E01
Stiff At The BBC: Episode 1
Tue, Jan 22 2008 10:30 PM GMT+0000
60 min
E02
Stiff At The BBC: Episode 2
Tue, Jan 22 2008 10:30 PM GMT+0000
60 min
E03
Van Morrison at the BBC
Sun, Apr 27 2008 9:30 PM GMT+0000
60 min
E04
Coldplay at the BBC
Wed, Jun 18 2008 9:30 PM GMT+0000
60 min
E05
Nana Mouskouri at the BBC
Fri, Dec 5 2008 10:30 PM GMT+0000
60 min
Season 2009
10 episodes
E01
Prog at the BBC
Fri, Jan 2 2009 10:00 PM GMT+0000
60 min
E02
Motown at the BBC
Fri, Feb 20 2009 10:00 PM GMT+0000
60 min
E03
U2 at the BBC
Sun, Mar 8 2009 10:30 PM GMT+0000
60 min
E04
Rough Trade at the BBC
Fri, Mar 13 2009 10:30 PM GMT+0000
60 min
E05
John Martyn at the BBC
Sun, Mar 22 2009 10:30 PM GMT+0000
60 min
E06
Kate Bush at the BBC 1979
Sun, Apr 26 2009 9:00 PM GMT+0000
60 min
E07
Blues at the BBC
Fri, May 1 2009 9:00 PM GMT+0000
60 min
E08
Eric Clapton at the BBC
Mon, May 4 2009 9:00 PM GMT+0000
60 min
E09
Island at the BBC
Fri, Jun 5 2009 9:00 PM GMT+0000
60 min
E10
Synth Britannia at the BBC
Fri, Oct 16 2009 9:00 PM GMT+0000
60 min
Season 2010
4 episodes
E01
Metal at the BBC
Fri, Mar 5 2010 10:00 PM GMT+0000
60 min
E02
Elton John at the BBC
Sat, Oct 30 2010 9:00 PM GMT+0000
60 min
E03
Tom Jones at the BBC
Sun, Nov 14 2010 10:00 PM GMT+0000
60 min
E04
Sir John Dankworth at the BBC
Fri, Nov 5 2010 10:30 PM GMT+0000
60 min
Season 2011
9 episodes
E01
Love Songs at the BBC
Mon, Feb 14 2011 10:00 PM GMT+0000
60 min
E02
Reggae at the BBC
Fri, Feb 18 2011 10:00 PM GMT+0000
60 min
E03
Easy Listening Hits at the BBC
Fri, May 27 2011 9:00 PM GMT+0000
60 min
E04
The Kinks at the BBC
Fri, Jul 15 2011 9:00 PM GMT+0000
60 min
E05
Exotic Pop at the BBC
Fri, Aug 19 2011 9:30 PM GMT+0000
60 min
E06
Acoustic at the BBC
Fri, Sep 2 2011 9:00 PM GMT+0000
60 min
E07
Lionel Richie at the BBC
Fri, Dec 2 2011 10:00 PM GMT+0000
60 min
E08
Country at the BBC
Sat, Dec 24 2011 10:00 PM GMT+0000
60 min
E09
Hip-Hop at the BBC
Fri, Dec 9 2011 10:30 PM GMT+0000
60 min
Season 2012
12 episodes
E01
R.E.M. at the BBC
Fri, Jan 13 2012 10:00 PM GMT+0000
60 min
E02
Duets at the BBC
Tue, Feb 14 2012 10:00 PM GMT+0000
60 min
E03
Disco at the BBC
Fri, Mar 2 2012 10:00 PM GMT+0000
60 min
A foot-stomping return to the BBC vaults of Top of the Pops, The Old Grey Whistle Test and Later with Jools as the programme spins itself to a time when disco ruled the floor, the airwaves and our minds. The visual floorfillers include classics from luminaries such as Chic, Labelle and Rose Royce to glitter ball surprises by The Village People.
E04
Southern Rock at the BBC
Fri, Apr 13 2012 9:30 PM GMT+0000
60 min
E05
Barry Manilow at the BBC
Fri, May 18 2012 9:00 PM GMT+0000
60 min
E06
Punk Britannia at the BBC
Fri, Jun 8 2012 9:00 PM GMT+0000
60 min
E07
London Songs at the BBC
Sat, Jun 9 2012 9:00 PM GMT+0000
60 min
E08
Punk at the BBC
Mon, Jun 11 2012 9:30 PM GMT+0000
60 min
E09
The Rolling Stones at the BBC
Sat, Nov 24 2012 10:00 PM GMT+0000
60 min
E10
Slade at the BBC
Fri, Dec 21 2012 10:00 PM GMT+0000
60 min
E11
Weller at the BBC
Fri, Nov 2 2012 10:30 PM GMT+0000
60 min
E12
Ultimate Number Ones at the BBC
Fri, Nov 23 2012 10:30 PM GMT+0000
60 min
Season 2013
3 episodes
E01
Dusty Springfield at the BBC
Fri, Mar 1 2013 10:00 PM GMT+0000
60 min
E02
Shirley Bassey at the BBC
Tue, Jun 11 2013 9:00 PM GMT+0000
60 min
E03
ABBA at the BBC
Fri, Dec 27 2013 10:00 PM GMT+0000
60 min
Season 2014
8 episodes
E01
Britpop at the BBC
Fri, Apr 11 2014 9:00 PM GMT+0000
60 min
E02
Great Guitar Riffs at the BBC
Fri, Jul 18 2014 9:00 PM GMT+0000
60 min
E03
Rod Stewart at the BBC
Fri, Aug 8 2014 9:00 PM GMT+0000
60 min
E04
Kate Bush at the BBC
Fri, Aug 22 2014 9:00 PM GMT+0000
60 min
E05
Goth at the BBC
Fri, Oct 31 2014 10:00 PM GMT+0000
60 min
E06
Country Queens at the BBC
Fri, Nov 7 2014 10:00 PM GMT+0000
60 min
E07
Country Kings at the BBC
Fri, Nov 21 2014 10:00 PM GMT+0000
60 min
E08
The Bee Gees at the BBC ... and beyond!
Fri, Dec 19 2014 10:00 PM GMT+0000
60 min
Season 2015
19 episodes
E01
Nigel Kennedy at the BBC
Fri, Jan 2 2015 10:00 PM GMT+0000
60 min
E02
The Carpenters At The BBC
Mon, Jan 5 2015 10:30 PM GMT+0000
60 min
E03
Irish Rock at the BBC
Fri, Mar 13 2015 10:00 PM GMT+0000
60 min
E04
Kings of Soul
Fri, Mar 20 2015 10:00 PM GMT+0000
60 min
E05
Queens of Soul
Fri, Mar 27 2015 10:30 PM GMT+0000
60 min
E06
One-Hit Wonders at the BBC
Fri, Apr 17 2015 9:00 PM GMT+0000
60 min
E07
Rock 'n' Roll at the BBC
Fri, Jul 24 2015 9:00 PM GMT+0000
60 min
E08
Cilla at the BBC
Sun, Aug 16 2015 9:00 PM GMT+0000
60 min
E09
Hot Chocolate at the BBC
Fri, Sep 25 2015 9:00 PM GMT+0000
60 min
E10
Andre Previn at the BBC
Fri, Oct 9 2015 9:00 PM GMT+0000
60 min
E11
Indie Classics at the BBC
Fri, Oct 9 2015 9:00 PM GMT+0000
60 min
E12
Leonard Bernstein at the BBC
Fri, Oct 16 2015 9:00 PM GMT+0000
60 min
E13
Totally 60s Psychedelic Rock at the BBC
Fri, Oct 23 2015 9:00 PM GMT+0000
60 min
E14
Girls in Bands at the BBC
Fri, Oct 30 2015 10:00 PM GMT+0000
60 min
E15
Knights of Classic Drama at the BBC
Sun, Nov 1 2015 10:00 PM GMT+0000
60 min
E16
Ultimate Cover Versions at the BBC
Fri, Nov 6 2015 10:00 PM GMT+0000
60 min
E17
Dames of Classic Drama at the BBC
Sun, Nov 8 2015 10:30 PM GMT+0000
60 min
E18
Adele at the BBC
Fri, Nov 20 2015 10:00 PM GMT+0000
60 min
E19
Dance at the BBC
Sun, Dec 13 2015 10:00 PM GMT+0000
60 min
Season 2016
7 episodes
E01
Pierre Boulez at the BBC
Fri, Jan 29 2016 10:00 PM GMT+0000
60 min
E02
Perfect Pianists at the BBC
Fri, Mar 4 2016 10:00 PM GMT+0000
60 min
E03
Virtuoso Violinists at the BBC
Fri, Mar 11 2016 10:00 PM GMT+0000
60 min
E04
John Williams at the BBC
Fri, Mar 18 2016 10:00 PM GMT+0000
60 min
E05
The Brontes at the BBC
Sun, Mar 27 2016 9:00 PM GMT+0000
60 min
E06
Buble at the BBC
Thu, Nov 3 2016 10:30 PM GMT+0000
60 min
E07
Classic Cellists at the BBC
Fri, Dec 9 2016 10:00 PM GMT+0000
60 min
Season 2017
13 episodes
E01
Bowie at the BBC
Fri, Jan 13 2017 10:00 PM GMT+0000
60 min
E02
Kiri Te Kanawa at the BBC
Sun, Mar 5 2017 10:00 PM GMT+0000
60 min
E03
Dazzling Duets at the BBC
Sun, Mar 12 2017 10:00 PM GMT+0000
60 min
E04
Photographers at the BBC
Thu, Mar 16 2017 10:00 PM GMT+0000
60 min
E05
Classic Quartets at the BBC
Sun, Mar 19 2017 10:00 PM GMT+0000
60 min
E06
Stunning Soloists at the BBC
Sun, Mar 26 2017 9:00 PM GMT+0000
60 min
E07
Depeche Mode at the BBC
Fri, Apr 7 2017 9:30 PM GMT+0000
60 min
E08
Glam Rock at the BBC
Fri, Sep 15 2017 9:00 PM GMT+0000
60 min
E09
Harry Styles at the BBC
Thu, Nov 2 2017 10:00 PM GMT+0000
60 min
E10
Sam Smith at the BBC
Thu, Nov 9 2017 10:00 PM GMT+0000
60 min
E11
U2 at the BBC
Tue, Dec 19 2017 10:00 PM GMT+0000
60 min
E12
U2 at the BBC: Special Edition
Thu, Dec 28 2017 10:30 PM GMT+0000
60 min
E13
On Camera: Photographers at the BBC
Thu, Mar 16 2017 10:30 PM GMT+0000
60 min
Season 2018
2 episodes
E01
Arctic Monkeys at the BBC
Fri, Jun 8 2018 9:00 PM GMT+0000
60 min
E02
Ariana Grande at the BBC
Thu, Nov 1 2018 10:00 PM GMT+0000
60 min
Season 2019
2 episodes
E01
James Galway at the BBC
Sun, Dec 8 2019 10:00 PM GMT+0000
60 min
E02
Van Morrison at the BBC
Sat, Mar 16 2019 10:30 PM GMT+0000
60 min
Season 2020
4 episodes
E01
Sir Cliff Richard at the BBC
Fri, Oct 16 2020 9:30 PM GMT+0000
60 min
E02
Australian Hits at the BBC
Sun, Oct 25 2020 10:30 PM GMT+0000
60 min
E03
Dame Vera Lynn at the BBC
Sun, Nov 8 2020 10:30 PM GMT+0000
60 min
E04
Dionne Warwick at the BBC
Fri, Dec 11 2020 10:30 PM GMT+0000
60 min
Season 2021
25 episodes
E01
Whitney at the BBC
Fri, Jan 1 2021 9:00 PM GMT+0000
30 min
A selection of songs by one of soul music's biggest-ever voices, illustrating why the world sat up and listened when Whitney Houston burst onto the scene in 1985 with Saving All My Love for You. This playlist traverses the '80s, '90s and '00s, leading to the star's early death in 2012, which was wildly regarded as a tragic loss to the world of contemporary music.
E02
Neil Diamond at the BBC
Fri, Jan 22 2021 10:30 PM GMT+0000
60 min
E03
Tommy Cooper at the BBC
Fri, Mar 5 2021 10:30 PM GMT+0000
60 min
E04
Caroline Aherne at the BBC
Tue, Mar 9 2021 10:30 PM GMT+0000
60 min
E05
St Patrick's Day at the BBC
Fri, Mar 19 2021 10:30 PM GMT+0000
60 min
E06
Duran Duran at the BBC
Sat, Apr 17 2021 9:30 PM GMT+0000
60 min
A celebration of the finest appearances by Duran Duran on the BBC, featuring live performances on The Old Grey Whistle Test, Wogan and Top of the Pops.
E07
St. George's Day at the BBC
Fri, Apr 23 2021 9:30 PM GMT+0000
60 min
E08
Cher at the BBC
Sat, May 29 2021 9:30 PM GMT+0000
60 min
E09
Tina Turner at the BBC
Sat, Jun 5 2021 9:30 PM GMT+0000
60 min
E10
Phil Collins at the BBC
Sat, Jun 12 2021 9:30 PM GMT+0000
60 min
E11
Canadian Hits at the BBC
Fri, Jul 2 2021 9:30 PM GMT+0000
60 min
E12
Pride Hits at the BBC
Sat, Jul 3 2021 9:30 PM GMT+0000
60 min
E13
Queens of Song at the BBC
Sat, Aug 7 2021 9:30 PM GMT+0000
60 min
E14
Sir Simon Rattle at the BBC
Sun, Aug 22 2021 9:30 PM GMT+0000
60 min
E15
Charlie Watts at the BBC
Fri, Aug 27 2021 9:30 PM GMT+0000
60 min
E16
Beyoncé at the BBC
Sat, Sep 4 2021 9:30 PM GMT+0000
60 min
E17
The Spice Girls at the BBC
Sat, Oct 2 2021 9:30 PM GMT+0000
60 min
E18
Trevor Horn at the BBC
Sat, Oct 23 2021 9:30 PM GMT+0000
60 min
E19
Nicola Benedetti at the BBC
Sun, Nov 7 2021 10:30 PM GMT+0000
60 min
E20
Paul McCartney at the BBC
Sat, Nov 20 2021 10:30 PM GMT+0000
60 min
E21
Queen at the BBC
Sat, Nov 27 2021 10:30 PM GMT+0000
60 min
E22
St Andrew's Day at the BBC
Fri, Dec 3 2021 10:30 PM GMT+0000
60 min
E23
Madonna at the BBC
Sat, Dec 18 2021 10:30 PM GMT+0000
60 min
E24
Sondheim at the BBC
Mon, Dec 27 2021 10:30 PM GMT+0000
60 min
E25
Lady Gaga at the BBC
Wed, Dec 29 2021 10:30 PM GMT+0000
60 min
Season 2022
18 episodes
E01
Ronnie Spector at the BBC
Fri, Jan 14 2022 9:00 PM GMT+0000
30 min
A look at the life and career of 60s icon and girl-group pioneer Ronnie Spector, featuring performances in shows such as Later… with Jools Holland, The Old Grey Whistle Test and Glastonbury 2016.
E02
Dolly Parton at the BBC
Sat, Jan 22 2022 8:30 PM GMT+0000
60 min
A look back at some of Dolly Parton's finest performances at the BBC, incorporating her greatest moments and hits such as Jolene, 9 to 5, Islands in the Stream and Here You Come Again.
E03
Elaine Paige at the BBC
Sat, Jan 29 2022 8:30 PM GMT+0000
60 min
A selection of some of Elaine Paige's best-loved songs and finest performances at the BBC, including huge hits like Don't Cry For Me Argentina, Memory and I Know Him So Well.
E04
Stevie Wonder at the BBC
Sat, Feb 19 2022 8:30 PM GMT+0000
60 min
A collection of Stevie Wonder's best BBC moments, including such hits as I Just Called to Say I Love You, Happy Birthday, He's Misstra Know-It-All and Love's in Need of Love Today.
E05
Take That at the BBC
Sat, Apr 2 2022 8:35 PM GMT+0000
60 min
They're Britain's best-loved and most enduring boys-to-men band, and here we celebrate a selection of Take That's greatest BBC appearances from their long and varied career. This collection contains all the biggest hits that you'll never forget, from both phases of the band's existence: the glorious early days of nonstop number ones, when Gary, Robbie, Mark, Howard and Jason were everyone's favourite pop pin-ups; and then the 21st-century comeback that nobody expected, where the fans' patience paid off and the band reinstated themselves at the top of the charts. Of course, everything changes over the years, and we capture them as a five-piece, a quartet and a trio, but what shines through at all times are the quality of the songwriting and performances, and that magical connection with the audiences that's made them such a hit for so long.
E06
Mariah Carey at the BBC
Sat, Apr 9 2022 8:15 PM GMT+0000
60 min
It's been over 30 years since the Mistress of Melisma Mariah Carey stepped onto our screens and started giving us Emotions.To celebrate the singer who conquered the 1990s and changed the sound of pop and R&B forever, we delve into the BBC archives to bring you all of her best-loved hits, from Vision of Love through to Honey and Shake It Off.We embrace the highest notes in pop with Open Arms and prove once and for all that when it comes to our Hero Mariah, it's true that We Belong Together.
E07
Celine Dion at the BBC
Sat, May 21 2022 6:00 PM GMT+0000
60 min
She's got one of pop's most powerful voices and has belted out some of the greatest love songs of all time, so prepare to swoon as Celine Dion gets the At the BBC treatment.This collection of Celine's best performances from the biggest shows includes all her most famous hits and moments, from the 1988 Eurovision performance that first introduced her to British audiences to the Oscar-winning soundtrack smashes she enjoyed with Beauty and the Beast and, of course, Titanic's My Heart Will Go On.
E08
Britney at the BBC
Sat, May 28 2022 6:00 PM GMT+0000
35 min
She's been one of the world's most successful and talked about performers of the century, and last year's triumph of the #FreeBritney campaign means she's still relevant more than two decades after she first grabbed our attention.Her explosive arrival on the music scene aged just 16 made Britney a frequent visitor to some of TV's biggest shows, and here we've captured the biggest and best of those performances, with hits including Crazy, Overprotected, Toxic and Oops! I Did it Again. So, why not join us and revisit her best BBC moments One More Time?
E09
LGBTQ+ Hits at the BBC
Sat, Jun 11 2022 7:00 PM GMT+0000
60 min
Join us for this celebration of pop's greatest LGBTQ+ stars whose gender and sexuality are central to the story of their individual careers and the amazing songs they've created.Our rainbow alliance of amazing artists includes George Michael, Boy George, Freddie Mercury, Beth Ditto, MNEK, Lil Nas X and Barry Manilow. Some pushed boundaries and challenged gender stereotypes from the very start, others only revealed their true selves after years of success and speculation – but all have played their part in changing the world of popular music and the sounds that we listen to and love.
E10
Sounds of Birmingham at the BBC
Sat, Aug 6 2022 7:00 PM GMT+0000
60 min
A look back through the BBC's archives, celebrating the best Brummie bands, artists and performances from the past five decades. This collection of Birmingham's finest acts showcases how England's second city has led the way when it comes to musical diversity, with a range of tracks covering reggae, metal, ska, dance, rap and pure pop.Amongst the hit acts featured are UB40, Dexys Midnight Runners, Duran Duran, Judas Priest, Joan Armatrading, ELO, Laura Mvula, The Streets and Black Sabbath, whose classic track Paranoid gets its first BBC outing since 1970 – a rare chance to see a young Ozzy Osbourne doing what he did best before becoming a reality TV superstar.
E11
Roxy Music and Bryan Ferry at the BBC
Sat, Sep 3 2022 8:30 PM GMT+0000
60 min
Enjoy the Thrill of It All and Dance Away the Evening for this dive into the BBC's archives to look over some of the finest performances from both Roxy Music and Bryan Ferry.As a band, they were innovative, helping create the look and sound of the 1970s, and Ferry's solo career saw him hit new heights as the embodiment of sophisticated cool. Amongst the hits included are classics like Do The Strand, Avalon, Slave to Love and In Every Dream Home a Heartache…but the programme covers their entire careers, do prepare for More Than This.
E12
Kylie at the BBC
Sat, Sep 24 2022 8:10 PM GMT+0000
60 min
A journey back in time for a selection of Kylie's best and biggest performances on the BBC.It's a journey from the early, girl-next-door days with Stock Aitken Waterman to the boundary-pushing dance sounds of the 90s, 00s and beyond. Along for the ride are some of the eclectic mix of stars Kylie has collaborated with over the years, including Robbie Williams, Nick Cave and Jason Donovan.Together, this collection of magical BBC moments highlights why Kylie has always had a special place in the British public's hearts.
E13
Olivia Newton John at the BBC
Sat, Oct 15 2022 9:15 PM GMT+0000
60 min
A special tribute to the much-loved star, who died in August 2022 at the age of 73 after a music career spanning over five decades and years spent raising awareness of breast cancer.It was the success of Grease that turned Olivia into an international sensation, but she was already familiar to BBC audiences thanks to appearances like many of those captured in this collection. These include her own TV specials, guest appearances on some of the biggest entertainment shows of the day, and the 1974 Eurovision Song Contest, where Olivia represented the United Kingdom, going into battle with eventual winners Abba.The songs featured here were often even bigger successes in America, thanks to Olivia's popularity on the US country music charts, which then crossed over to the mainstream and ultimately continued post-Grease, with classics like Physical and Xanadu helping to define the early 1980s.
E14
Cleo Laine at the BBC
Fri, Oct 28 2022 8:00 PM GMT+0000
60 min
A special celebration of Dame Cleo Laine's finest moments on the BBC to coincide with her ninety-fifth birthday. Britain's ‘First Lady of Jazz' became a star after joining The John Dankworth Seven in the 1950s and then marrying the bandleader. Internationally renowned for her mastery of the ‘scat' singing style, and with a voice that has been described as ‘one of the richest contraltos in recording history', Cleo has now enjoyed over six decades of success and acclaim here and across the world.These are the highlights of her extraordinary career, with classic songs like Send in the Clowns and I Love You, Porgy, and duets with John Williams, Dudley Moore, Tony Bennett, and of course, her musical partner and fellow jazz legend Johnny Dankworth.
E15
Ed Sheeran at the BBC
Sat, Oct 29 2022 7:35 PM GMT+0000
60 min
A look back at the best BBC moments of Ed Sheeran, who's been bringing his A game to viewers and listeners since before his first big hit, The A Team. Since that debut, he has enjoyed 13 number ones and had so many hits that the rules on how many singles could enter the charts had to be rewritten.It's a career that's seen Ed dazzle audiences on a huge range of BBC shows and special concerts, so prepare for Shivers with this selection of his most Perfect performances.
E16
Petula Clark at the BBC
Fri, Nov 11 2022 9:00 PM GMT+0000
60 min
As the legendary Petula Clark prepares to celebrate her ninetieth birthday, we look back on an extraordinary career that has stretched across eight decades and made her one of our most popular, successful and enduring stars.This collection of Petula's finest moments at the BBC ranges from 21st-century performances with Jools Holland on Later right back to the 1940s when ‘Britain's Shirley Temple' was just a teenager, showcasing her talents on early broadcasts from Alexandra Palace.The journey from child star to icon of British entertainment includes years as one of the biggest names in television and West End musicals like The Sound of Music, as well as huge chart success, both in the UK and across Europe, especially in France where her star shone almost as brightly as it did here.Featuring much-loved classics like Downtown, Don't Sleep in the Subway, This Is My Song and many more, this is a birthday celebration that Petula fans will not want to miss.
E17
Piano Greats at the BBC
Sat, Dec 10 2022 9:15 PM GMT+0000
90 min
A collection of songs from the kings and queens of the keyboards, whose performances have captivated audiences over the decades and across a selection of the BBC's best-loved music programmes.From piano pioneers like Little Richard, Nina Simone and Ray Charles, who showed the world that the new sounds of pop and rock didn't just revolve around guitars, right through to modern maestros like Elton John, Lady Gaga and the BBC's own Jools Holland, these are the big names who got us tapping our feet by letting their fingers do the talking.
E18
Robbie Coltrane at the BBC
Mon, Dec 26 2022 9:00 PM GMT+0000
60 min
A look back at the life and career of Robbie Coltrane, one of Britain's best-loved stars and a giant of both the big and the small screen. His death earlier this year was one of the big shocks of 2022. Here, Celia Imrie narrates an affectionate tribute to one of Scotland's favourite sons, telling his story through a selection of interviews and special moments from his appearances on BBC shows over the decades.This retrospective is a reminder of how Robbie first grabbed audiences' attention as an exciting new comedy star in the 1980s, and the transition he made in the 1990s into cinema success and international stardom with roles in some of the movie world's biggest blockbuster franchises.
Season 2023
30 episodes
E01
Motown Master: Lamont Dozier at the BBC
Sun, Jan 1 2023 9:00 PM GMT+0000
60 min
A celebration of the work of songwriter Lamont Dozier, who passed away in 2022, featuring a rich selection from the BBC's archive of performances of his work from over the decades.As one of the legendary Holland-Dozier-Holland trio, Lamont helped create the Motown sound that spread right across the globe in the 1960s, setting a new standard in popular songwriting and winning over fans like Bob Dylan and the Beatles with songs like You Keep Me Hanging On, Baby Love, This Old Heart of Mine and Reach Out I'll Be There.This collection features Dozier's best loved and most recognisable hits, performed by the artists like Diana Ross and the Supremes, The Four Tops, and Martha and the Vandellas, who he helped turn into international stars, as well as those who have kept his work alive and relevant to this day including Phil Collins, Kylie Minogue, Rod Stewart and Rag'n'Bone Man.
E02
Rod Stewart at the BBC 2
Sat, Jan 7 2023 8:00 PM GMT+0000
60 min
Rod Stewart has already been honoured with one BBC celebration of his great career, but the man Elton John called Phyllis has had so many hits, and is held in such affection by his army of fans, that it's time for another deep dive into the TV archives.This second collection of songs from the gravel-voiced legend brings us up to date with some of Rod's more recent appearances and features some magic mic-stand-twirling moments from exclusive live shows. Plus rarely seen BBC performances of some of his biggest hits from over the years, including Tonight's the Night, It's a Heartache, Have I Told You Lately and Sailing.
E03
Roy Orbison at the BBC
Sat, Feb 4 2023 8:50 PM GMT+0000
30 min
A deep-dive into the BBC's archives to celebrate the great Roy Orbison – full-time rock 'n' roll legend, part-time Traveling Wilbury and the man Elvis famously described as ‘the best singer in the world'.The Big O's story was in many ways a tragic one, full of family tragedies and heartbreak, and his extraordinary voice captured all those emotions and more, bringing a new dimension to popular music. This programme features some of the hits that had fans eraptured and fellow music superstars singing his praises, with performances from his many visits to the UK including Only the Lonely, Crying and Oh Pretty Woman.
E04
Love Songs at the BBC: Volume 2
Sat, Feb 11 2023 8:00 PM GMT+0000
60 min
A stunning selection of perfect performances of love songs from the BBC's music archives, including the sounds of Nat King Cole, Shania Twain, Billy Joel, Ed Sheeran and many, many more.
E05
Heartbreakers at the BBC
Sat, Feb 11 2023 9:00 PM GMT+0000
60 min
A selection of classic heartbreaking BBC performances from some of music's biggest stars, including George Michael, Amy Winehouse, Sam Smith, Taylor Swift and soul legend Dionne Warwick.
E06
Movie Themes at the BBC
Sat, Feb 18 2023 8:40 PM GMT+0000
60 min
A selection of some of the best BBC moments and classic archive performances from those singers and bands who cracked Hollywood as well as the pop charts.These are the tunes that get hummed when leaving the cinemas over the years from blockbusters, Oscar winners, comedies and family favourites, featuring a selection of soundtrack stars including Destiny's Child, Paul Simon, All Saints, Simple Minds and Dolly Parton.
E07
Dusty Springfield at the BBC Volume Two
Sat, Mar 11 2023 8:45 PM GMT+0000
60 min
A selection of archive appearances on the BBC by singer Dusty Springfield through the decades, including performances of You Don't Have to Say You Love Me, Son of a Preacher Man and The Look of Love.
E08
Chaka Khan at the BBC
Sat, Mar 18 2023 8:50 PM GMT+0000
40 min
Ain't Nobody quite like Chaka Khan, and the proof of that comes courtesy of the BBC's music archives, which have been plundered for this celebration of one of the all-time great queens of soul.This selection of Chaka's finest BBC moments covers five decades of performing, reflecting a career that started in the 70s with her partnership with Rufus and eventually led to the massive number one hit I Feel for You, which helped bring rap right into the mainstream, and I'm Every Woman, an instant anthem that made her a lifelong female icon.
E09
Andrew Lloyd Webber at the BBC
Sat, Mar 25 2023 9:25 PM GMT+0000
90 min
To mark his 75th birthday, Andrew Lloyd Webber takes a nostalgic journey through the BBC archives, looking back on some of his biggest and best-loved songs.Alongside performances from stars like Barbra Streisand, Elaine Paige, Diana Ross, Michael Ball and Michael Crawford are stories that Andrew shares from behind scenes of his most popular works - shedding light on how he knew Madonna would perform Evita years before she did, how the cast of Starlight Express ended up on roller skates, and how Jason Donovan and his Technicolour Dream Coat had a whole new generation falling in love with musical theatre.
E10
Burt Bacharach at the BBC
Sat, Apr 8 2023 8:00 PM GMT+0000
90 min
When Burt Bacharach passed away in February 2023 at the age of 94, the world said goodbye to one of the all-time songwriting greats. This celebration of the man and his music features a selection of the finest songs from his extraordinary back catalogue and some ‘magic moments' from the BBC's archives.With performances from artists like Aretha and Adele, Dusty and Dionne, Cilla Black and the White Stripes, this is a collection that highlights exactly why Burt was considered a legend by fans, critics and fellow artists, demonstrating once again the why he and his compositions are universally loved by ‘anyone who had a heart.'
E11
Carole King and Her Songs at the BBC
Sat, Apr 15 2023 7:30 PM GMT+0000
90 min
She was just 17 when she wrote the pop classic Will You Still Love Me Tomorrow - a calling card that over the years Carole King has delivered on time and time again. The most successful female singer-songwriter of all time, and one of modern music's standout geniuses, Carole's catalogue of hits, many written with her songwriting partner and first husband Gerry Goffin for both herself and some of pop and rock's biggest stars, is second to none.This celebration of the best of Carole King features a collection of irresistible performances from her and a range of other great artists, taken from a selection of BBC shows from over the decades.
E12
Sounds of Liverpool at the BBC
Sat, May 6 2023 8:30 PM GMT+0000
90 min
It's the city that gave birth to the Beatles, inspired Gerry to ride that ferry, and spawned Bunnymen and Atomic Kittens. Now with all eyes – and ears – on Liverpool for the 2023 Eurovision Song Contest, a look into the BBC's archives for a selection of performances from some of Merseyside's biggest and best-loved musical stars.Forget house music - this is scouse music, rich and varied, with some songs that conquered charts across the world and others that struck a special chord here – from The Story of the Blues to You'll Never Walk Alone, and inevitably, in a city with two massive football teams, Frankie Goes to Hollywood's Two Tribes.
E13
Pet Shop Boys at the BBC
Sat, May 20 2023 6:35 PM GMT+0000
90 min
A look back at one of British music's most enduring and significant partnerships, the Pet Shop Boys, with highlights from Neil Tennant and Chris Lowe's many appearances on the BBC that demonstrate their dedication to both style and substance.It's a journey that takes us from the early days of just two men and a synth right up to the fun and flamboyance of their modern live shows, including hit collaborations with Liza Minelli, Dusty Springfield and David Bowie - proving that Pet Shop Boys stand alongside the great pioneers of pop.
E14
Barry Humphries at the BBC
Sun, May 28 2023 8:00 PM GMT+0000
60 min
Alex Jones looks back at the highlights of the comedian and actor's career on a selection of BBC shows, sharing her own memories alongside some of Barry's funniest, rudest and most revealing moments from over the decades. It's a collection that demonstrates exactly why his alter egos of Dame Edna Everage and Sir Les Patterson were loved by comedy fans across the world, while also highlighting how it was Barry who was really one of a kind.
E15
Barry Manilow at the BBC
Sat, Jun 10 2023 7:25 PM GMT+0000
60 min
With a string of hits in the 1970s and '80s and a succession of hugely successful albums that he is still recording today, the American singer-songwriter has carved a unique place as both performer and songwriter. This programme features archive performances by Manilow, with songs from concerts at the Royal Albert Hall and Blenheim, as well as appearances on Top of the Pops, Strictly Come Dancing and the Proms.
E16
George Michael at the BBC
Sat, Jun 17 2023 7:25 PM GMT+0000
90 min
The much-missed singer-songwriter was one of Britain's best-loved and most acclaimed music stars, rising to superstardom in the 1980s phenomenon with Wham!, before his subsequent solo work took his career to a whole new level. This collection of appearances on the BBC by the singer-songwriter both solo and as part of Wham! includes performances of Club Tropicana, Freedom, Faith, Outside and Amazing.
E17
Blur at the BBC
Sat, Jul 29 2023 7:25 PM GMT+0000
60 min
Archive performances by the band, from their first TV appearance on a Saturday morning show hosted by Cheryl Baker of Bucks Fizz right through to their headlining slots at Glastonbury. This collection features Country House, Parklife, Girls & Boys, Coffee & TV, Beetlebum, Tender and Out of Time.
E18
Shania Twain at the BBC
Sat, Aug 26 2023 8:15 PM GMT+0000
45 min
A collection of Shania Twain's biggest moments from the BBC archives, including Still the One, That Don't Impress Me Much and Man! I Feel Like a Woman!
E19
Bananarama at the BBC
Sat, Sep 2 2023 7:40 PM GMT+0000
60 min
Archive performances by the pop group, featuring many of the 25 Top 40 singles they released over their career. It's a selection that covers those early days when the Fun Boy Three first introduced pop fans to the original line-up of Keren Woodward, Sara Dallin and Siobhan Fahey on It Ain't What You Do, as well as the end of the 1980s when Siobhan left and was replaced by Jacquie O'Sullivan.
E20
Alicia Keys at the BBC
Sat, Sep 16 2023 7:20 PM GMT+0000
60 min
A selection of the Grammy-winning American singer-songwriter's performances on BBC music programmes, featuring the hits Fallin', No One, Girl on Fire and Empire State of Mind.
E21
Stock Aitken Waterman at the BBC
Sat, Sep 23 2023 7:35 PM GMT+0000
90 min
Mike Stock, Matt Aitken and Pete Waterman were the producers who conquered the UK charts in the 1980s, with their instantly recognisable brand of disco floor-filling pop hits. They divided the nation between those who loved their high-energy sound and the singers they transformed into cheesy pop sensations, and a music press that loathed them for turning music-making into a production line. This selection celebrates some of their most memorable hits, from acts including Kylie Minogue, Jason Donovan, Rick Astley, Dead or Alive, Donna Summer, Bananarama, and Mel and Kim.
E22
Kylie at the BBC
Sat, Sep 23 2023 10:15 PM GMT+0000
90 min
Newly extended programme featuring a selection of archive performances by Kylie Minogue, from the early days with Stock Aitken Waterman to the dance sounds of the 1990s, the 2000s and beyond, including her collaborations with Robbie Williams, Nick Cave and Jason Donovan.
E23
Mary J Blige at the BBC
Sat, Oct 14 2023 7:30 PM GMT+0000
60 min
A celebration of the American R&B superstar that features the best of her appearances on a selection of BBC shows, from the mid 1990s up to her acclaimed 2015 performance on Glastonbury's Pyramid Stage. With hits like Just Fine, Everything and No More Drama, as well as collaborations with U2, George Michael and Elton John.
E24
Fleetwood Mac at the BBC
Sat, Oct 21 2023 7:25 PM GMT+0000
65 min
Archive performances by the band, charting their development from a blues band performing hits Albatross and Oh Well in the 1960s under founder members Peter Green and Mick Fleetwood, to pop rock stars in the 1980s with the line-up who recorded their seminal 1977 album Rumours. There are also archive interviews and solo performances from band members Stevie Nicks and Christine McVie as they went their own way at various points in their careers.
E25
Lulu at the BBC
Sat, Oct 28 2023 7:25 PM GMT+0000
70 min
A collection of the singer's most popular hits, covers and classics from a huge range of shows, including her own series and TV specials that were a feature of the BBC's light entertainment schedules in the 1960s and '70s. There are duets with Neil Diamond, Bill Withers, Shirley Bassey and Al Green, and songs including To Sir with Love, The Man with the Golden Gun and the Bowie-penned The Man Who Sold the World.
E26
Blondie at the BBC
Sat, Nov 18 2023 8:00 PM GMT+0000
65 min
When Blondie first exploded onto the music scene with their debut UK hit Denis they were an immediate sensation and instantly embraced by the British record-buying public. Debbie Harry's inimitable cool, and the band's pioneering new-wave, New York sound made them one of the most significant bands of the era - and gave them an impressive six number one singles. This programme take a trip through the BBC archives to sample the best of Blondie over the years, with appearances from the late-1970s up to recent times featuring performances of songs including Call Me, Atomic, Picture This, Rapture and The Tide Is High.
E27
Disco at the BBC: Volume Two
Sat, Dec 16 2023 9:05 PM GMT+0000
60 min
Another slice of disco delight with a celebration of nightclub classics taken from the very best of the BBC's archives, including Rock Your Baby, Ring My Bell and Yes Sir, I Can Boogie.
E28
Mike Yarwood at the BBC
Wed, Dec 20 2023 9:00 PM GMT+0000
60 min
Rory Bremner looks back at the life and career of Mike Yarwood, master of the imitation game and one of the BBC's most successful stars of the 1970s and 80s.Yarwood captured the British public's imagination with his huge range of impressions featuring the biggest names from the world of showbiz and politics, and in his 70s heyday, his affectionate takes on the likes of Harold Wilson, Edward Heath and Denis Healey were the bridge between the 60s satire of That Was the Week That Was and the far crueller caricatures of Spitting Image in the 1980s.Rory assesses Yarwood's style, impact and legacy and shares his own favourite moments from his hero's career using archive clips and interviews that Yarwood gave over the years - often to the very people he was impersonating.
E29
Disco at the BBC: Volume Three
Sat, Dec 23 2023 9:00 PM GMT+0000
60 min
Another fantastic selection of dance floor disco classics, featuring a wealth of performances from the BBC's music archives, including Tina Charles, The Real Thing, Sister Sledge and The Bee Gees.
E30
Aretha at the BBC
Thu, Dec 28 2023 11:20 PM GMT+0000
30 min
Aretha Franklin is widely acknowledged to be one of the greatest singers of all time, and yet more proof of that can be found in this collection of her performances on BBC programmes from across the decades.From a stunning 2015 performance of You Make Me Feel (Like a Natural Woman) that had President Barack Obama in tears to gems from the 1970s, when Aretha dropped in to be the guest star on shows hosted by Cliff Richard and Lulu, these songs and her voice will remind everyone why she is still to this day considered the ultimate queen of soul.
Season 2024
31 episodes
E01
Shirley Bassey at the BBC: Volume Two
Sat, Jan 6 2024 8:30 PM GMT+0000
60 min
Another collection of Shirley Bassey's performances from the BBC archives, including such hits as My Way, The Way We Were, Copacabana and even her own version of The Beatles' iconic Hey Jude.
E02
1984 at the BBC
Sat, Jan 20 2024 8:35 PM GMT+0000
60 min
A collection of archive music performances from the year, including Freedom by Wham!, Frankie Goes to Hollywood's Relax, Pride by U2, Against All Odds by Phil Collins, I Just Called to Say I Love You by Stevie Wonder, Madonna's Like a Virgin and Hello by Lionel Ritchie.
E03
Cyndi Lauper At The BBC
Sat, Jan 20 2024 9:35 PM GMT+0000
30 min
A celebration of the songs of Cyndi Lauper, who took the charts by storm in 1984 with her debut international hit Girls Just Wanna Have Fun, released in the same week as Madonna's first hit, Holiday. Cyndi surprised the critics of the day almost immediately and showed she deserved so much more than labels like ‘kooky' and ‘quirky', with sensitive songs like Time After Time and True Colors that still resonate as strongly today as they did back in the 1980s. This trip through the BBC's archives follows Cyndi's journey from the start, and captures why she became, and remains, one of the most positive female forces in modern pop music.
E04
One-Hit Wonders at the BBC: Volume 2
Sat, Feb 3 2024 9:10 PM GMT+0000
60 min
A selection of archive performances of hits by artists who barely troubled the singles charts again, including appearances by the La's, the Mock Turtles, Joan Jett, Kim Carnes, Don Henley, Patti Smith, Curtis Mayfield and John Denver.
E05
Hits That Missed at the BBC
Sat, Feb 3 2024 10:10 PM GMT+0000
90 min
A selection of classic songs that never made the UK Top 40 the first time they were released, including Summer of '69 by Bryan Adams, David Bowie's Changes, Dolly Parton's 9 to 5, and Johnny Cash's Ring of Fire.
E06
Love Songs at the BBC: Volume 3
Sat, Feb 10 2024 8:35 PM GMT+0000
60 min
A selection of performances of love songs from the BBC's music archives, with classics by Carpenters, the Three Degrees, Simply Red, Meatloaf and Sting, as well as some 21st-century songs to swoon to from Rihanna and Harry Styles.
E07
Heartbreakers at the BBC: Volume 2
Sat, Feb 10 2024 9:35 PM GMT+0000
60 min
A collection of songs from the BBC archives that will definitely deliver heartache, but also the chance to experience more of the greatest sad songs ever. Featuring the likes of Sade, the Righteous Brothers, Toni Braxton, Lewis Capaldi and many more who hit the charts while breaking people's hearts.
E08
Movie Themes at the BBC - Volume Two
Sat, Feb 17 2024 9:20 PM GMT+0000
60 min
Some more of the greatest movie themes to light up the UK pop charts from the BBC's archives, including Lulu's To Sir with Love, Kate Bush's This Woman's Work and Lisa Loeb's Stay.
E09
Texas at the BBC
Sat, Mar 9 2024 9:05 PM GMT+0000
70 min
Sharleen Spiteri takes a dive into the BBC's music archive to select the Glasgow band's greatest appearances on a selection of programmes and live events from across their 35-year career. It's a collection featuring all of their biggest hits, from I Don't Want a Lover and Black Eyed Boy to Summer Son and Say What You Want, combined with Sharleen's memories of several of her own favourite moments, including last year's triumphant return to the Pyramid stage at Glastonbury, dressing up as Elvis and a key collaboration with hip-hop icons the Wu-Tang Clan.
E10
Sinead O'Connor at the BBC
Sat, Mar 16 2024 9:40 PM GMT+0000
30 min
A look back through the BBC's archives at the work of the Irish singer-songwriter, with tracks including Mandinka, Black Boys on Mopeds and Success Has Made a Failure of Our Home. This playlist also features collaborations with Shane MacGowan of the Pogues and Dave Stewart of the Eurythmics, as well as cover of much-loved classics, including The House of the Rising Sun and the song that made her a star - Prince's Nothing Compares 2 U.
E11
Diana Ross at the BBC
Sat, Mar 23 2024 9:15 PM GMT+0000
60 min
A selection of the best performances from singer's visits to the BBC on programmes like Top of the Pops, Wogan and the National Lottery Show, both as the frontwoman of the Supremes and as a successful solo artists, Featuring Baby Love, I'm Still Waiting, Why Do Fools Fall in Love?, Upside Down and Love Hangover.
E12
Terry Hall at the BBC
Fri, Mar 29 2024 9:00 PM GMT+0000
60 min
When Terry Hall died in December 2022, at the age of 63, we lost one of British music's most influential, unpredictable and adored singer-songwriters of recent times.Here, take a trip into the BBC's archives to look back on Terry's extraordinary, genre-hopping career - from his early, decade-defining days as front man with The Specials, to Fun Boy Three, The Colourfield and his acclaimed solo career.Along the way, there were also multiple collaborations, ranging from Mark Ronson to Bananarama, the best of which are captured here in performances of hits including Gangsters, Thinking of You, Sense and Our Lips Are Sealed from shows like Top of the Pops, Whistle Test, Live in Session for BBC 6 Music, Glastonbury, the pioneering Oxford Road Show – and even some Cheggers Plays Pop.What shines through in these performances is Terry's love of all kinds of music and his desire to never stand still and always try something different.
E13
Ella Fitzgerald at the BBC
Sat, Mar 30 2024 9:30 PM GMT+0000
60 min
Some of Ella Fitzgerald's finest performances, captured on BBC programmes from over the years and including such classics songs as Day by Day, Cheek to Cheek and Ev'ry Time We Say Goodbye.
E14
More ABBA at the BBC
Sat, Apr 6 2024 7:35 PM GMT+0000
60 min
As a curtain-raiser to an evening of programmes marking the 50th anniversary of Abba's Eurovision Song Contest victory in Brighton, this compilation features BBC appearances by the Swedish superstars on Top of the Pops, Wogan, The Late, Late Breakfast Show and The Mike Yarwood Christmas Show. The programme also features a rare Top of the Pops performance of the song So Long from 1974, missing from the BBC archive and thought to be lost until a fan unearthed a home recording.
E15
Gladys Knight at the BBC
Sat, May 25 2024 8:25 PM GMT+0000
60 min
Archive performances by the singer known as the Empress of Soul to mark her 80th birthday, combining classic tracks alongside her band the Pips with solo songs. Songs like Baby Don't Change Your Mind, The Way We Were and Help Me Make It Through the Night are drawn from Gladys's appearances on Top of the Pops, Old Grey Whistle Test and The Harry Secombe show.
E16
Bon Jovi at the BBC
Sat, Jun 1 2024 7:30 PM GMT+0000
60 min
A compilation of the rock band's greatest BBC performances to mark their 40 years in the business, from early 1980s appearances on Top of the Pops and The Old Grey Whistle Test, to intimate sessions for Radio 2 and clips of their stadium-filling tours.
E17
Prince and His Songs at the BBC
Sat, Jul 6 2024 9:00 PM GMT+0000
60 min
A collection of hits from one of pop music's greatest geniuses - Prince, aka ‘The Artist Formerly Known as Prince', aka ‘the Unpronounceable Symbol', and more.
E18
Weather Hits at the BBC
Sat, Aug 10 2024 8:00 PM GMT+0000
145 min
BBC forecasters Carol Kirkwood and Tomasz Schafernaker present a selection of performances of weather-related songs from the archives, including Bill Withers singing Ain't No Sunshine When She's Gone and Why Does It Always Rain on Me? By Travis.
E19
Girls Aloud at the BBC
Sat, Aug 17 2024 8:10 PM GMT+0000
60 min
Having been formed for 2002 reality show Popstars: The Rivals, Girls Aloud dominated the UK charts and the tabloids over the next decade. This programme features a selection of archive BBC appearances by the group, including performances of Sound of the Underground, Something Kinda Ooooh, Can't Speak French, Call the Shots and Biology.
E20
Sting and the Police at the BBC
Sat, Sep 7 2024 10:30 PM GMT+0000
90 min
In the late-1970s to mid-1980s, Sting, Andy Summers and Stewart Copeland of the Police enjoyed a run of chart-topping singles, best-selling albums and huge concerts all across the world. When the trio went their separate ways four decades ago, it was Sting who established himself as one of the UK's most respected singer-songwriters. This collection of performances from the BBC's archives celebrates both the solo star and the band that brought him to our attention in the first place, with hits like Roxanne, Fragile, Message in a Bottle, Brand New Day and Every Breath You Take.
E21
Songs of Survival at the BBC
Sat, Sep 14 2024 8:00 PM GMT+0000
90 min
A trawl through the BBC archive to find a number of songs on a theme of survival, with highlights including disco classic I Will Survive by Gloria Gaynor, Destiny's Child singing Survivor, and heavyweight US rockers Survivor with the theme song to Rocky III, Eye of the Tiger.
E22
Kirsty MacColl at the BBC
Sat, Oct 5 2024 7:40 PM GMT+0000
60 min
A selection of archive performances that highlight the wit and intelligence of the singer-songwriter, who would have turned 65 this year had her life not been tragically cut short in December 2000. Including such hits as A New England, Days, and Fairytale of New York, her classic Christmas collaboration with the Pogues.
E23
40 Hidden Music Treasures at the BBC
Sat, Oct 12 2024 7:20 PM GMT+0000
145 min
Expect the unexpected on this latest journey through the BBC's archives, which features surprising songs and rare performances taken from shows that may have been forgotten, Featuring appearances by Jimi Hendrix, MC Hammer, Dusty Springfield, Tammy Wynette, the Beach Boys and Pet Shop Boys.
E24
Sad Songs at the BBC
Sat, Oct 26 2024 7:10 PM GMT+0000
60 min
A journey through a selection of some of the saddest - but finest - songs from the BBC's music archives, with tear-jerkers from Paul McCartney, Kate Bush, the Smiths, Randy Crawford, Coldplay, Dolly Parton, Eric Clapton and Eric Carmen.
E25
The Cure at the BBC
Sat, Nov 2 2024 8:10 PM GMT+0000
60 min
A celebration of Robert Smith and his band and the unique song-writing talents they possess, with a collection of archive performances on BBC programmes, featuring A Forest, Lovecats, Friday I'm In Love, Close to Me and Boys Don't Cry.
E26
Ultimate Cover Versions at the BBC: Volume 2
Sat, Nov 9 2024 8:05 PM GMT+0000
120 min
Another selection of cover versions from the archive, featuring the best in pop, rock and soul from the past five decades, with artists including Adele, Annie Lennox, Happy Mondays, Manic Street Preachers and Erasure. The collection may also raise eyebrows with some songs thought written by the acts whose versions became better known than the originals, with examples including Blondie's Denis, Natalie Imbruglia's Torn and Tina Turner's The Best.
E27
Boybands at the BBC
Sat, Nov 16 2024 8:15 PM GMT+0000
60 min
A celebration of male pop groups, who are sometimes not taken seriously, despite some seriously catchy songs, but who have always played a vital role in pop's dominance of modern music. With archive performances by Take That, One Direction, JLS, BTS, Backstreet Boys, Boyzone, East 17 and Westlife.
E28
Wham! at the BBC
Sat, Dec 14 2024 9:35 PM GMT+0000
70 min
Marking 40 years since the release of festive classic Last Christmas, guitarist Andrew Ridgeley and backing singers Pepsi Demacque-Crockett and Shirlie Kemp present a selection of the duo's biggest and best performances from the BBC archives. Featuring Young Guns (Go for It), Club Tropicana and The Edge of Heaven, these are the hits that made Wham! one of the hottest pop groups of the 1980s, and first introduced the world to the unique songwriting talents of George Michael.
E29
Eurythmics at the BBC
Sat, Dec 21 2024 8:25 PM GMT+0000
90 min
Dave Stewart and Annie Lennox's synthpop group were one of the biggest British acts of the 1980s, being bold, innovative, stylish and always highly unpredictable. The pair first tasted chart success in the Tourists before breaking away and achieving international stardom with songs like Love Is a Stranger and Sisters Are Doin' It for Themselves, and their evolving look and sound are captured here in a collection of best moments from the BBC's music archives.
E30
Annie Lennox at the BBC
Sat, Dec 21 2024 9:55 PM GMT+0000
60 min
A selection of the singer-songwriter's finest performances plucked from the BBC archives, celebrating the solo side of her accomplishments, which started in earnest with the release of her hugely acclaimed debut solo album Diva in 1992. Since then she has shown time and time again exactly why she remains one of the nation's most popular and critically praised artists, and here we share the evidence once again, with a selection of her finest performances plucked from the BBC archives.
E31
Maggie Smith at the BBC
Sat, Dec 28 2024 7:00 PM GMT+0000
60 min
Celia Imrie narrates a celebration of the life, work and TV appearances made over the years by one of Britain's greatest and best-loved actresses, Maggie Smith. Alongside new memories of Maggie from longstanding friends like Judi Dench and Derek Jacobi are a rich selection of classic clips from the 1960s to the 2020s, all demonstrating her wit, wisdom and famously sharp tongue.
Season 2025
26 episodes
E01
Heartbreakers at the BBC: Volume 3
Sat, Feb 8 2025 8:10 PM GMT+0000
60 min
Songs of sorrow and heartache by music's biggest stars, as performed on the BBC over the years. Highlights include Aretha Franklin's Don't Play That Song, as well as numbers from Dolly Parton, the Arctic Monkeys, One Direction, Boyz II Men and George Michael.
E02
Eastenders Sings at the BBC
Fri, Feb 14 2025 9:10 PM GMT+0000
90 min
A compilation of Top of the Pops performances by actors from the long-running soap.
E03
Songs Inspired by the Movies at the BBC
Sat, Feb 15 2025 8:35 PM GMT+0000
110 min
A trawl through the BBC archive for a collection of chart hits that take their inspiration from big-screen stars and classic movie moments, including Bette Davis Eyes by Kim Carnes, Bananarama's 1984 hit Robert De Niro's Waiting, Clint Eastwood by Gorillaz and Deep Blue Something's Breakfast at Tiffany's. The programme also features I'm in Love with a German Film Star, by the Passions, and Shania Twain's That Don't Impress Me Much, which namechecks a leading Hollywood actor.
E04
Elkie Brooks at the BBC
Sat, Mar 1 2025 8:30 PM GMT+0000
70 min
The singer marks her 80th birthday by looking back over her career, highlighted by some of her finest performances at the BBC, including appearances on Top of the Pops, Parkinson, The Old Grey Whistle Test, Wogan and The One Show. Songs include Pearl's a Singer, No More the Fool, Lilac Wine and Fool If You Think It's Over, and in between, Elkie remembers working alongside the likes of Chris Rea and Robert Palmer, and reveals personal insights into what has inspired her.
E05
Enya at the BBC
Sat, Mar 15 2025 10:00 PM GMT+0000
45 min
The Irish singer and composer as seen on the BBC, including her breakthrough single Orinoco Flow, which stayed at the top of the UK charts for three weeks in 1988. Since then she has released nine top 10 albums and won multiple awards all while maintaining her privacy, rarely giving interviews and never touring.
E06
Show Tunes at the BBC: Volume 2
Sat, Mar 22 2025 8:25 PM GMT+0000
90 min
As The Big Night of Musicals ends on BBC One, Elaine Paige keeps the show running by rustling up a fresh selection of tunes from favourite musicals, including Les Misérables, Oklahoma!, Hamilton and Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat. The performances, all taken from the BBC archive, feature the likes of Shirley Bassey, Alfie Boe, Hugh Jackman and Barbara Dickson, as well as a set of full cast ensembles.
E07
Eric Clapton at the BBC
Sat, Mar 29 2025 8:15 PM GMT+0000
60 min
Tomorrow, Eric Clapton turns 80. To mark the occasion, BBC Two presents an evening of programmes dedicated to the acclaimed British blues guitarist, kicking off with a selection of his BBC performances over the decades. Highlights include the regae-infused hit I Shot the Sheriff, the 1980s ballad Wonderful Tonight and appearances with Smokey Robinson, Bobby Whitlock and Tina Turner.
E08
40 Originals at the BBC
Sat, Apr 5 2025 7:20 PM GMT+0000
150 min
A compilation of 40 big hits by the artists that originally performed them, such as John Fogerty's Rockin' All Over the World - which became synonymous with 1970s rockers Status Quo - and Lori Lieberman's Killing Me Softly with His Song - covered by many artists, including Roberta Flack. Others featured include Gladys Knight, Neil Diamond, Nine Inch Nails, Dolly Parton and the Zutons, whose song Valerie became a massive hit for Amy Whitehouse.
E09
Covers in the Piano Room at the BBC
Sat, Apr 5 2025 9:40 PM GMT+0000
90 min
A selection of stripped-back performances by artists who have appeared in the Radio 2 Piano Room. Highlights include Jessie Ware with her own version of Cher's 1998 hit Believe, rap star Stormzy giving a tender rendition of Oleta Adams' 1991 soul classic Get Here, Pink's cover of Nothing Compares 2 U by Sinéad O'Connor and Coldplay with the Proclaimers' anthem Sunshine on Leith. Other artists include Ed Sheeran, Clean Bandit, Joy Crookes, James Blunt, Emeli Sandé, Paul Heaton and Jacqui Abbott, Belinda Carlisle, Sugababes, Raye, Suzanne Vega, Sophie Ellis-Bextor, Bono and the Edge, Alison Moyet, Rag 'n' Bone Man, Kiefer Sutherland, Michael Bublé, Anastacia, and Jools Holland and Rod Stewart.
E10
40 Hidden Music Treasures at the BBC: Volume 2
Sat, Apr 26 2025 7:40 PM GMT+0000
145 min
Another deep dive into the BBC's music archive, pointing the musical compass away from Top of the Pops on a quest to uncover 40 hidden gems. The songs are familiar but the performances may not be, such as Bronski Beat singing Smalltown Boy for the first time on the BBC, Rihanna's rockier version of Umbrella, Sophie Ellis-Bextor covering Pulp's Do You Remember the First Time? and Kate Bush pairing up for a tango during Hounds of Love.
E11
Dad's Army at the BBC
Tue, May 6 2025 6:30 PM GMT+0000
60 min
Ever since the first episode was broadcast in 1968, Dad's Army has been one of the most familiar programmes on British television – much-loved and shown repeatedly, thanks to the affection it is held in by viewers of all generations. But despite its seemingly constant presence on screen, lots of Dad's Army moments have remained unseen inside the BBC's archives – until now.Narrator Toby Jones – who himself played Captain Mainwaring in the 2016 Dad's Army film – shares a selection of classic clips that feature everyone's favourite Home Guard platoon in appearances that took them beyond the confines of Walmington-on-Sea. Amongst the many delights are Mainwaring dancing and sparring with Morecambe and Wise, the whole cast defending Buckingham Palace at the 1970 Royal Gala, Private Pike invading the Lulu Show, and a special song and dance tribute to Noel Coward – all must-see moments for fans of the show.
E12
30 Hits of 1988 at the BBC
Sat, May 10 2025 7:35 PM GMT+0000
115 min
A journey through the BBC's music archives, diving in to share all that was great in 1988. With hits from Kylie Minogue, Salt-N-Pepa, Terence Trent D'Arby and Glenn Medeiros.
E13
Bruce Springsteen at the BBC
Sat, May 31 2025 7:30 PM GMT+0000
60 min
A selection of performances from the BBC's archives by the American singer-songwriter, featuring appearances on The Old Grey Whistle Test and Top of the Pops and BBC Four sessions.
E14
Billy Joel at the BBC
Sat, Jun 7 2025 7:40 PM GMT+0000
75 min
With songs like Uptown Girl, Piano Man and We Didn't Start the Fire, Billy Joel was one of the most successful artists of the 1970s and '80s. This deep dive into the American singer-songwriter's appearances over the decades on the BBC digs up the best moments from the archives, with all the biggest hits and fan favourites, from his first UK hit Just the Way You Are through to The River of Dreams, the last big single of his career.
E15
40 Hits of 1985 at the BBC
Sat, Jun 14 2025 7:10 PM GMT+0000
140 min
A selection of songs from the year, featuring Queen, Simple Minds, Elton John, Prince, Duran Duran, Foreigner, Billy Ocean, Marillion, Go West, King, Strawberry Switchblade, Kirsty MacColl and Princess. There are also collaborations between Elaine Paige and Barbara Dickson, Phil Collins and Philip Bailey, Gary Moore and Phil Lynott, and Chrissie Hynde and UB40.
E16
Oasis at the BBC
Sat, Jun 21 2025 7:35 PM GMT+0000
105 min
With Oasis's long-awaited reunion and the band's sell-out run of concerts finally just around the corner, this programme dives into the BBC's music archives for a celebration of the band. Featuring the early mission statements that were Rock 'n' Roll Star, Cigarettes & Alcohol, Wonderwall, Slide Away and Champagne Supernova, it's a compilation that helps explain the Oasis phenomenon, demonstrating why and how they became one of Britain's biggest bands.
E17
ELO at the BBC
Sat, Jul 5 2025 7:05 PM GMT+0000
60 min
A selection of archive performances by the Electric Light Orchestra, whose futuristic fusion of rock 'n' roll and classical arrangements first took off in the 1970s. This programme brings together the very best of the band's performances at the BBC over the years, featuring hits including 10538 Overture, Don't Bring Me Down, Livin' Thing, Sweet Talkin' Woman and Mr Blue Sky.
E18
Dexys at the BBC
Sat, Aug 2 2025 8:10 PM GMT+0000
75 min
Kevin Rowland looks back on his unique career as he introduces the best of Dexys' BBC performances from over the decades.
E19
Johnny Mathis at the BBC
Sat, Sep 20 2025 8:10 PM GMT+0000
60 min
A deep dive into the BBC's archive to celebrate the American singer, affectionately known as the Voice of Romance. From early hits like Misty and Nat King Cole tributes such as Unforgettable and Let There Be Love, to duets with Lulu and Natalie Cole, this compilation captures the inimitable Mathis at his finest.
E20
Pavarotti at the BBC
Sat, Oct 11 2025 7:40 PM GMT+0000
60 min
A celebration of some of Pavarotti's finest performances from the BBC archives, capturing how he became the biggest opera star of modern times.
E21
40 Hits of 1975 at the BBC
Sat, Oct 18 2025 7:35 PM GMT+0000
140 min
Take a musical trip back in time to 50 years ago, with 40 essential hits from 1975 plucked from the BBC's archives. The punk explosion was two years away and disco was only just starting to surface, but these 12 months were still packed with classic songs that remain staples to this day. Key moments include Abba in Blackpool on Seaside Special and Bay City Rollers riding the wave of Rollermania, as well as debut hits from key artists who were pioneers in their individual genres, including Bob Marley, Supertramp and Kraftwerk.
E22
Kim Wilde at the BBC
Sat, Nov 22 2025 8:05 PM GMT+0000
90 min
The pop singer shares her favourite musical moments and memories from across the years, featuring the best of her many appearances on a range of BBC shows across the decades. With performances from the 1980s on Wogan, Saturday Superstore, Going Live and numerous editions of Top of the Pops, as well as 2024's triumphant show at Radio 2 in the Park, with hits Kids in America, Water on Glass, Rage to Love and You Keep Me Hangin' On and the rarely seen duet A Short Term Affair with Tony Ferrino, aka Steve Coogan.
E23
Sammy Davis Jr at the BBC
Sun, Dec 7 2025 8:30 PM GMT+0000
60 min
He was known as Mr Entertainment, and it's clear why that was the case from this collection of some of Sammy Davis Jr's finest moments on British television - showing off his unbeatable talents as singer and raconteur and opening up about his life in several fascinating conversations.Sammy always had a special affection for the BBC, appearing many times over the years to perform and share stories with the likes of Michael Parkinson and Terry Wogan, and here we find him discussing his encounters with racism and his relationship with America's civil rights movement, the breakdown of his controversial marriage to the actress May Britt and the car accident that cost him an eye.Alongside all the insights into his life and experiences are, of course, several show-stopping archive performances – as he wows the BBC's studio audiences with classic songs like Once in a Lifetime, Me and My Shadow and My Funny Valentine.
E24
Michael Aspel at the BBC
Sun, Dec 14 2025 7:45 PM GMT+0000
45 min
Before he became one of Britain's best-loved presenters, Michael Aspel was the face of early television - donning the famous 'communal dinner jacket' as a continuity announcer in the fledgling days of broadcasting.In this warm and revealing documentary, Aspel looks back on a career that spanned news reading, children's favourites like Crackerjack and Ask Aspel, along with iconic shows such as This Is Your Life and Antiques Roadshow.With stories of interviews gone delightfully wrong, encounters with silver screen legends and even his comic turns with Morecambe and Wise, this is the definitive portrait of a man who helped shape British TV.
E25
Madness at the BBC
Sat, Dec 20 2025 10:20 PM GMT+0000
90 min
Madness frontman Suggs and keyboardist Mike Barson take a trip down memory lane to explore some of the nutty boys' finest moments from the BBC's archives. Sharing the stories behind hits like Baggy Trousers, House of Fun and It Must Be Love, the friends chart Madness's beginnings as a promising seven-strong ska band, their rise to chart dominance in the 1980s, the tensions behind the break-up that followed and a comeback that saw them confirm their status as one of Britain's best-loved and most enduring bands.
E26
Lesley Garrett at the BBC
Fri, Dec 26 2025 10:20 PM GMT+0000
89 min
A tribute to the remarkable voice and career of the great soprano Lesley Garrett, who shares memories of some of her finest performances on the BBC.From the soaring melodies of operatic classics to the heartfelt charm of favourite musical theatre numbers, this collection includes beloved songs such as Somewhere and Tonight, and showcases the versatility, artistry and warmth that have made Lesley Garrett one of Britain's most cherished performers.
Season 2026
7 episodes
E01
40 Duets at the BBC
Sat, Jan 3 2026 9:00 PM GMT+0000
145 min
A selection from the BBC's music archives showcasing those hits that saw artists and acts joining forces to bring something new and unique to the UK charts. These are some of the biggest and best collaborations that remain classics to this day, featuring George Michael and Aretha Franklin, Eminem and Dido, Nelly and Kelly Rowland, Peter Gabriel and Kate Bush, Meat Loaf and Cher, Kenny Rogers and Dolly Parton, and Kylie Minogue and Jason Donovan.
E02
Paul Young at the BBC
Sat, Jan 10 2026 8:45 PM GMT+0000
60 min
The singer looks back on his career, with archive performances of Wherever I Lay My Hat (That's My Home), Love of the Common People, and Every Time You Go Away. Interwoven with clips of these classic songs, Paul reflects on his journey through fame, the stories behind his most memorable tracks, and the experiences that shaped his career, from the early days with the Q-Tips, to solo fame in the 1980s right up to the present day.
E03
One-Hit Wonders at the BBC: Volume 3
Sat, Mar 7 2026 9:00 PM GMT+0000
60 min
Another celebration of artists who lit up the charts exactly once before slipping mysteriously out of view, including Jennifer Paige's Crush, the 1998 hit that defined a summer, alongside the off-kilter charm of Jimmy the Hoover's Tantalise (Wo Wo Ee Yeh Yeh) from 1983. This instalment digs deeper into the vaults to unearth more unforgettable one-offs and near misses, reminding why the charts remain such a thrilling, unpredictable arena.
E04
Comic Relief's Hits and Hidden Gems at the BBC
Sat, Mar 21 2026 8:45 PM GMT+0000
60 min
Scott Mills looks at the greatest musical moments from the long-running charity, including chart-topping performances by Adele, One Direction and the Spice Girls, as well as rarely seen highlights from Sam Smith and John Legend, Justin Bieber, Marti Pellow, McFly - and Helen Mirren and Robbie Coltrane.
E05
Show Tunes at the BBC: Volume 3
Sat, Mar 28 2026 9:20 PM GMT+0000
90 min
Elaine Paige guides viewers through another treasure trove of musical theatre moments from the BBC archives. With classic numbers from Hello, Dolly! to Les Misérables, Chess to South Pacific, the programme features memorable performances from artists including Shirley Bassey, Michael Bublé, Fred Astaire, Alison Moyet, Louis Armstrong and Elaine herself.
E06
Black British Music at the BBC: Volume 1
Sat, Apr 18 2026 7:45 PM GMT+0000
150 min
Trevor Nelson present a selection of archive performances in a celebration of some of the very best in black British music from over the decades, featuring 40 tracks from artists and genres that have been a vital part of the national soundtrack. The eclectic playlist covers pop, soul, ska, reggae, drum 'n' bass and more, featuring acts including Soul II Soul, Hot Chocolate, Neneh Cherry, Sade, Winifred Atwell, Olivia Dean, So Solid Crew and Stormzy.
E07
Black British Music at the BBC: Volume 2
Sat, Apr 25 2026 7:50 PM GMT+0000
150 min
DJ Spoony selects a playlist of 40 great tracks that bring together some of the most inspiring names from the worlds of pop, soul, ska, reggae, rap and garage.